When Doug Bozych talks about his new role at Victor J. Andrew High School, his excitement is unmistakable. “This position provides a unique opportunity to engage daily with our students, staff, families, and community as we continue to enhance our programs and our school as a whole,” he said.
The Consolidated High School District 230 Board of Education approved Bozych as the school’s next Assistant Principal of Activities, a role he will assume after longtime administrator Tim Dalton retires at the end of the school year. Bozych currently serves as Andrew’s Division Chair for Physical Education, Health, and Driver Education.
A veteran educator in District 230, Bozych began his career at Andrew, teaching physical education, health, driver education and adapted PE for more than a decade. He also led the boys’ track and field program and served as Student Activities coordinator before moving into administrative roles. From 2020 to 2022, he served as Division Chair for Physical Education, Health, and Driver Education at Amos Alonzo Stagg High School.
His influence reaches beyond campus through his long-standing involvement with the Illinois High School and College Driver Education Association Board of Directors. He has spent more than 10 years contributing to statewide curriculum work, program development, legislative efforts, and conference presentations.
Andrew Principal Dr. Abir Othman said Bozych’s blend of experience and passion makes him an ideal fit. “Doug brings experience, vision, and heart to the Assistant Principal of Activities position,” Othman said. “His leadership in both the classroom and in student activities has already made a lasting impact at Andrew. We are excited to see him continue elevating our student experience.”
Othman added that one of his key responsibilities will be helping every student find a co-curricular activity—something she noted often correlates with stronger academic performance and a deeper sense of belonging.
For Bozych, the role represents a chance to help shape what it means to be a Thunderbolt. “This position plays a significant part in shaping and growing the Thunderbolt experience—from the moment you enter our campus off 171st Street to the energy in our hallways, our Performing Arts Center, and our athletic spaces,” he said. “I am honored that our School Board, Dr. Nolting, Dr. Othman, and the rest of our VJA leadership team have entrusted me with this opportunity.”
Looking ahead, Bozych plans to continue strengthening programs and expanding opportunities for students. “One of my immediate priorities is creating a stronger connection between our curricular and co-curricular programming to further support student growth and achievement, including exploring new co-curricular summer camp opportunities,” he said.
He also hopes to collaborate with the district’s Director of Postsecondary and Career Readiness to build meaningful pathways that help students connect their high school experiences to future careers and community involvement.
“I can’t wait to work with our students, staff, and community as we continue growing our co-curricular programs, developing student leaders, and elevating the Thunderbolt experience for T-Bolts past, present, and future,” he said.
Bozych holds a bachelor’s degree in health education from Illinois State University, driver education and special education endorsements, a master’s degree in educational administration from Concordia University, and a master’s degree in sports administration from Northwestern University.